As a Barcelona resident, Here’s How to Steer Clear of Tourist Crowds

The charm of Barcelona lies in its rich cultural landscape, nestled between mountains and a coastline bathed in mild Mediterranean breezes. Having lived here for over five years, I find there’s always something fresh to explore. I can spend hours wandering the atmospheric Gothic Quarter, soaking in the museums and unique shops, or enjoying people-watching with a glass of cava and tapas on an Eixample terrace. I also adore a seaside chiringuito for delightful Mediterranean snacks and breathtaking coastal views during the warmer months.

La Sagrada Familia stands as one of Spain’s most frequented landmarks, leaving few visitors unaffected. Alongside other remarkable sites around the city, the basilica draws millions annually—many of whom endure long waits to witness the extraordinary creations of Antoni Gaudí and his peers.

However, popularity comes with its challenges. In May 2024, 2 million tourists flocked to Barcelona and its nearby areas—a 5.9 percent increase from the same period last year. With 1.7 million residents within the city, this surge has resulted in congestion in popular spots, overwhelmed local resources, and rising tensions between visitors and residents. The city has rolled out measures to tackle this influx, including limiting cruise ships, revoking short-term rental licenses, and increasing tourism taxes by October.

But don’t worry. With some foresight and adherence to responsible tourism guidelines set by the city council, visitors can enjoy all that Barcelona has to offer safely. To dodge the crowds at major attractions, plan your visit between November and March when the hustle and bustle subsides. Consider exploring off-the-beaten-path sites or, even better, take a day trip to the charming wine regions or picturesque towns in Girona and the Costa Brava.

Looking for some tips? Here’s how to explore Barcelona authentically and avoid the crowds.

Consider when—and how—you approach major attractions

In 2023, the same year the evangelist towers of Mark and John were completed, over 4.7 million visitors flocked to the Sagrada Familia. While this influx is beneficial for the iconic basilica—since 100 percent of ticket proceeds fund its ongoing care and construction—it poses challenges for those navigating through large crowds. Joana Wilhelm, a seasoned Barcelona tour guide with over 30 years of experience, advises clients on the best times to visit and offers customized experiences. “Afternoons at the Sagrada Familia tend to be less busy, and the light filtering through the stained glass creates a stunning atmosphere,” she shares.

Engaging events provide a fresh perspective on a landmark and its heritage. After 9 p.m., the rooftop of Gaudí’s iconic Casa Mila (La Pedrera), once a private residence known for its unique architecture, becomes a venue for a soundtracked, video-mapped light show that can be enjoyed alongside a guided tour of the building. Additionally, the site hosts evening classical concerts and art exhibitions that are typically quieter than daytime visits.

Wilhelm recommends other evening activities to evade the crowds, such as attending a concert at the Palau de la Música, where “a variety of musical genres is embraced in a stunning modernist ambiance.” At Casa Batlló, a UNESCO World Heritage site and another of Gaudí's masterpieces, night owls can opt for an audio guide or a virtual-reality tablet while enjoying a complimentary glass of cava on the rooftop.

Discover the city from a unique perspective

Although Gaudí’s creations are a major attraction, Barcelona boasts a rich array of lesser-known monuments, cultural experiences, and outdoor spaces to keep visitors engaged throughout the year.

Architecture

Gaudí’s influence is reflected in a range of lesser-known works scattered throughout the city. This is great news for those looking to avoid long waits or who have limited time for cultural exploration. Casa Vincens, a 19th-century home turned museum in Gràcia, marks Gaudí's first major residential project. Completed in 1885, it offers a glimpse into bourgeois modernist life. “I admire Gaudí's ingenuity in incorporating a garden within the house,” remarked Wilhelm. “Another fascinating site is the lesser-known Torre Bellesguard in Sarrià-Sant Gervasi, which is still undergoing some restoration,” she noted. The Palau Güell in El Raval, an extravagant former home of Gaudí's most prominent patron, Eusebi Güell, also merits a visit.

To see all three in one day, you’ll need to utilize the well-connected metro system. Begin at the torre (tower), then take a 30-minute train ride to Gràcia, and finish with a 15-minute trip to the centrally located palau (palace).

Significant works by modernist contemporaries include Josep Puig i Cadafalch’s Casa Amatller, an elaborate residence often overlooked due to its proximity to Gaudí's more famous sites on Passeig de Gràcia, and Lluís Domènech i Montaner’s Sant Pau, a collection of buildings that serve as a working hospital, exemplifying art nouveau in the city. For a great cultural experience, walk 11 minutes from Sant Pau to the Sagrada Familia.

Culture

Pablo Picasso, whose namesake museum attracts visitors from around the world, is a legendary figure locally. His friend and contemporary, Joan Miró, a Barcelona-born surrealist artist and sculptor, may not be as well-known but is equally significant to the city’s cultural tapestry.

Explore his most significant works at the often-overlooked Fundació Joan Miró, situated on the hill in Parc de Montjuïc. For a visual and sensory experience of renowned artists’ creations, Ideal Centre d’Arts Digitals will spark your imagination. If you're short on time, visit the Cases Singulars website, which showcases a curated selection of lesser-known cultural institutions. Highlights include the Real Academia de Bellas Artes, featuring art dating back to the 18th century, and Casa Rocamora, a beautifully preserved 19th-century mini palace.

Parks & gardens

When thinking of outdoor spaces in Barcelona, the mosaic-adorned fountains of Parc Güell or the serene rowing area at Parque de la Ciutadella likely come to mind. Yet, with over 90 parks and gardens throughout the city, visitors will easily find green spaces to suit their preferences. The Jardí Botànic de Barcelona in Parc de Montjüic is Spain's first botanical garden, showcasing a variety of native plants and bonsai exhibitions. Don’t miss the Parc del Laberint d’Horta, which features a romantic garden maze in the northeastern Horta-Guinardó district.

Explore the city's outskirts—and beyond

While many tourists flock to the bustling streets and central beaches of Barcelona, the Catalonia region offers a treasure trove of adventures just beyond the city limits. Lauren Aloise, founder of Devour Tours, which immerses clients in local culture through food, encourages exploration of various neighborhoods. “Barcelona is incredibly walkable and beautiful. My perfect day begins in El Born, then I wander through Eixample and Gràcia, taking in the architecture and sampling local eateries, shops, and galleries along the way,” she shares.

Day trips to medieval towns, wineries, or the coastline are fantastic ways to absorb local culture. Wilhelm and Aloise recommend heading to the Penedès wine region—just under an hour’s drive away—for a personalized tour and wine tasting. Joan Segura Pujadas, a multigenerational cava producer, offers 4x4 rides through the vineyards along with tastings. “My favorite winery is the elegant Jean Leon, but if you're looking for something closer, Alta Alella offers wonderful wines and is only 30 minutes from the city,” says Wilhelm.

In the Costa Brava region, about a 1.5 to two-hour drive north depending on your destination, you can enjoy sunny days exploring quaint fishing villages like Calella, Llafranc, and Tamariu, or sailing to hidden coves nestled among rugged cliffs. For those preferring land adventures, nearby medieval towns such as Pals, Púbol, and Peratallada are all within easy reach of Mas de Torrent, a beautifully restored 18th-century farmhouse turned five-star hotel. The hotel also organizes boat trips to Salvador Dalí's beloved spots, including Cadaqués and Cap de Creus.

Uncover local cuisine away from tourist hotspots

“Without a doubt, February is my favorite time to visit, especially during calçots season,” says Aloise. “I love gathering with friends at a private countryside house to enjoy grilled calçots served with romesco sauce all afternoon.” While this dish is often enjoyed at residential farmhouses, several restaurants in Barcelona also embrace the tradition. For an authentic experience, check out Can Travi Nou or Nou Can Martí, both rustic spots that embody the essence of this culinary celebration.

Even during quieter off-peak times, markets are alive with seasonal treats year-round. Aloise strategically visits the Mercat de la Boqueria around 8 a.m. to take in the modernist building’s wrought-iron and stained-glass entrance, as well as the bustling atmosphere at opening time—she always makes a purchase during her visit. Nowadays, you can also find her at less touristy spots like Mercat de Santa Caterina and the newly renovated Mercat de Sant Antoni. “The beauty of the iron-sided structure alone is worth the trip,” she notes. “It’s the true heartbeat of the neighborhood, brimming with passionate vendors.”

To dine like a local, Aloise shares a few culinary treasures. “La Cova Fumada is a historic gem in Barceloneta, famous for its signature bomba tapas, grilled artichokes, and delightful chipirones (baby squid),” she recommends. For modern Catalan dishes made with seasonal ingredients, La Pubilla in the Gràcia district is the place to be. To savor Barcelona's wine scene, head to Els Sortidors del Parlament. “Begin with some cava and cured meats, then let the evening unfold,” she advises.

Barcelona stands as a culinary capital with an impressive tally of 35 Michelin stars. Fortunately, several top chefs offer more budget-friendly options without sacrificing quality. In 2022, the team behind the World’s 50 Best’s top restaurant, Disfrutar, opened Compartir Barcelona, an à la carte venue serving shareable Mediterranean dishes at a more reasonable price point. Amar’s Rafa Zafra co-owns Per Feina, located in the trendy Poblenou, where diners can enjoy a three-course menú del día (menu of the day) featuring Catalan dishes for €19.50 ($21.20). For dessert lovers, Enigma head chef Albert Adrià has returned to his pastry roots with the Gelato Collection, a newly opened avant-garde ice cream parlor offering 20 artisanal flavors, with plans to expand to 60.

Choose artisanal souvenirs with a story

For meaningful keepsakes, bypass the mass-produced trinkets available at central souvenir shops and opt for artisanal products that honor Catalan culture and traditions. Suzanne Wales, author of Made in Spain, a book highlighting artisan craft makers across the country, loves exploring local shops and markets for unique treasures. “Wandering through Gràcia often leads to delightful finds in lifestyle and fashion stores, and at Mercat dels Encants [flea market], I've scored porcelain silverware for a steal,” she shares.

For stylish and affordable design pieces, ranging from classic to contemporary, Wales recommends Centre d’Artesania Catalunya, the gallery and shop of the Catalan Craft Association. “I adore their colorful glass versions of the porrón (a communal drinking vessel used during gatherings and celebrations),” she mentions. At Curated By, shoppers can discover oversized, handcrafted leather tote bags, while Anzi Barcelona features a wide array of items crafted exclusively by local artisans. “My favorites are ceramic pieces inspired by fossils and shells, created by concept designer Zeynep Büyükbayrak (Tøz Barcelona).”

Recently, I found a new shop aptly named The Most Sustainable Souvenir Shop in the World. Managed by the sustainable design studio Naifactory Lab, the store offers biodegradable pottery, lighting, and glassworks—all labeled with comprehensive information about their origins.

For an authentic experience, choose boutique hotels with rich histories

While platforms like Airbnb are popular, Barcelona officials intend to revoke 10,000 tourist apartment licenses by 2028 to create affordable housing for locals. Fortunately, the city is filled with charming boutique hotels that offer unique touches and amenities, reflecting the essence of Catalan life.

Opened in early August, the 92-room Borneta has been thoughtfully curated, from the artwork to the dining options. Its design draws from the 19th-century homes near Parc de la Ciutadella. “Details like the timber floors and antique furniture were inspired by these historic residences,” explained interior designer James Thurstan Waterworth. Casa Sagnier, once the home and studio of famous architect Enric Sagnier, welcomes guests with elegance. Celebrating over eight years, Casa Bonay—a modern urban hotel with various social spaces—offers premium canned cocktails known as Libertine Blends, with a strong commitment to community engagement.

To fully appreciate the city, Wales encourages visitors to venture out. “Step outside your comfort zone. Areas like Horta and Sants offer a more genuine experience with beautiful architecture where locals actually reside,” she advises. Aloise adds that it’s important to take a moment to soak in your surroundings. “Barcelona radiates a unique energy,” she notes. “Engage with people, take your time, and observe. While you may not be a local, being open to interactions can teach you a great deal,” she suggests.